KATHMANDU, April 11: Ghode Jatra, also known as Horse Racing Day, is being celebrated in Kathmandu today. The government has granted a public holiday on the occasion within the Valley.
A special program is being organized at Tundikhel in which Nepali Army cavalry team performs different equestrian stunts.
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Public belief has it that the demon who lived on a meadow, which is now at Tundikhel, used to unleash terror in Kathmandu, particularly children. After his death, people rejoiced by dancing on his body by riding horses. There is also a belief that the parade of horses at Tundikhel keeps the demon’s spirit away.
The horse parade, religiously known as Aswa Yatra, is also organized to welcome the New Year.
